What are the Best Car Audio Capacitors? Expert Answer With Pros and Cons

Car Audio Capacitors

Capacitors are electronic components that store electric energy and discharge it rapidly. Unlike batteries, they’re built to store and discharge energy rapidly. Every capacitor comprises of a dielectric and two electric conductors.

The dielectric acts as an insulator between the conductors. When a source of electric current powers the conductors, a field of static electricity is generated and stored around the dielectric. With that said, what’s the use of a capacitor in car audio?

Car audio capacitors are used to prevent dimming of dash lights and headlights when playing loud bass notes. They work by supplying the car amplifier with rapid jolts of power.

But how would you get to know the best capacitor for your car audio? It’s simple. Read on through this article for a review of the top 7 best car audio capacitors.

This buying guide will assist you in making a more informed decision upon knowing the features, pros and cons of the top 7 best capacitors for car audio.

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Best Car Audio Capacitor Comparison Table

NameCapacitance ValueRated VoltageTolerance (+/-)Our RatingPrice
Planet Audio PC10F [Overall best]10 Farads16VDC10 %  
BOSS Audio CPBK2-22 Farads16V DC10 %  
Sound Storm C222 Farads16V DC10 %  
Stinger SSCAP2M2 Farads16V DC10 %  
Rockford RFC11 Farads16V DC10 %  
Soundquest SQCAP2M[Budget Friendly]2 FaradsN/A10 %  
Power Acoustik PC1.5F1.5 Farads12 to 16V DC10 %  

How We Wrote This Review

We have interviewed many car owners who complain about dimming headlights and dash lights when blasting their music. They always wondered how they could fix this problem. Well, from our research, all they needed is installing a car audio capacitor. With a little investment, they installed car audio capacitors and are no longer experiencing the problem of dimming lights.

Also, we have done analysis from existing research on car audio capacitors to have deeper understanding about the features that a good capacitor must have. Most noteworthy, we have gathered reports from product experts to know more about the performance of different capacitors in the market. Results of our research shows that different car audio capacitors perform differently.

As a buyer, you need to know the best audio capacitor for your car. This is where this review comes in handy. It has everything you need to know as a buyer regarding the best car audio capacitors.

1. Planet Audio PC10F

Planet Audio PC10F boasts of being one of the best 10 Farad car audio capacitors. It’s unique in that it supports a capacitance value of 10 farads. This means that it can store and discharge more power than its main competitors. Hence, it can power more powerful car amplifiers than rival capacitors.

Features and Benefits of Planet Audio PC10F

  • Illuminated LED display: First of all, Planet Audio PC10F car audio capacitor comes with a digital, LED voltage display with three digits. The illuminated LED display makes it easy to know the current voltage of the capacitor, such that you can easily tell when it’s either full or running low.
  • Audible tones: Another key feature of this capacitor is that it has audible tone for overvoltage, low voltage and reverse polarity. The audible tones alert you whenever the capacitor experiences unfavorable conditions such as overvoltage, low voltage and reverse polarity.
  • High working voltage: Moreover, the capacitor features a working voltage of 16 VDC and a surge voltage of 24 VDC. Its support for higher voltage than standard ratings means that it’s protected from overvoltage and power surge.
  • Attractive finishing: In addition, the capacitor comes with an attractive black, chrome finish. The black, chrome finish makes it blend easily in almost any interior car finish, regardless of the color and style.
  • High capacitance: Finally but not least, the capacitor feature a capacitance value of 10 Farads.This means that this capacitor has higher power storage such that it can power amplifiers for longer periods than capacitors with lower capacitance.

Pros

  • Three digit LED display
  • Audible warning tones
  • High capacitance
  • Low voltage and voltage overload protection
  • Blue illumination

Cons

  • It’s price is in the high range
  • Lacks an inbuilt distribution block
  • Requires a little bit more time to charge

Our Verdict: Planet Audio PC10F capacitor is ideal for car owners who need to power more powerful car stereo systems. Although it’s a little more expensive than some of its competitors, it worth its price considering its higher capacitance.

2. BOSS Audio CPBK2-2

BOSS Audio CPBK2-2 is a 2 Farad audio capacitor. It’s unique for its compact size and weight, making it one of the smallest, yet a reliable capacitor in the market today. Its small size makes it less visible upon hooking up in your car stereo. Its compact design makes it easier to fit in even the smallest spaces.

Features and Benefits of BOSS Audio CPBK2-2

  • Three digit display- First and foremost, this capacitor comes with a red, three digit voltage display. The red display makes it easy to see the current voltage even while in the dark such that you can easily tell when it’s full or running low.
  • Warning tones- The capacitor also comes with the capability of audible warning tones. The audible tone alerts you in the event of reverse polarity, low voltage and overvoltage.
  • Remote terminal screws- It features remote terminal screws on the head. The head terminal screw makes it easy to hook up when charging or connecting it to your car stereo.
  • Fast charging- Since it’s a 2 Farad capacitor, it only takes seconds to charge. This means that you can charge it very quickly as needed.
  • Light weight and compact- It is compact in size with a low unit weight. This makes it fit easily in the smallest spaces and its lightweight nature makes it effortless to hookup.

Pros

  • Compact in dimensions
  • Light weight
  • It’s less expensive
  • Charges pretty quickly
  • Low voltage and overload protection

Cons

  • Stores less energy
  • May not power more powerful amplifiers
  • Does not feature an in-built distribution block

Our Verdict: BOSS Audio CPBK2-2is one of the best capacitors for car audio on the lower price tag. It’s most ideal for car owners with a tight budget and less powerful amps. It will surely offer you the convenience you need, thus consider it in your shortlist.

3. Sound Storm C22

The Sound Storm C22 capacitor is yet another great capacitor. Its key unique feature is its chrome plated posts. The chromium plating gives the posts a decorative surface finish. It also enhances the resilience of the posts. In addition, chromium plating makes the posts stronger and more durable.

Highlights and Benefits of Sound Storm C22

  • Surge protection- A high working voltage of 16V DC and surge voltage of up to 20V DC. Its high working voltage means that it can work efficiently under higher voltage and its surge voltage of 20V DC means that it’s protected from high voltage.
  • Quick to charge- The capacitor has a capacitance value of 2 Farads. The lower capacitance value makes it quick to charge such that it will power your car stereo amp within no time.
  • Digital display- It features a red voltage display that displays current voltage in three digits. The red voltage display enables a user to check the voltage of the capacitor without using any special voltage measuring tools.
  • Chrome plating- The Sound Storm C22 features chrome plated posts. The chromium plated posts have enhanced strength and durability, in addition to decorative finishing.
  • Mounting brackets- Mounting brackets and other mounting supplies are included. Thus, you will not have to invest any extra money with mounting supplies.

Pros

  • Budget friendly
  • Compact design
  • Surge protection
  • Gets a full charge quickly
  • Chrome plated posts

Cons

  • A little bit huge
  • Stores little charge
  • Not ideal for powering more powerful amplifiers

Our Verdict: If you really need a medium priced capacitor for your car stereo that charges pretty fast, then you can add Sound Storm C22 in your shortlist. It’s ideal for anyone with less powerful amplifiers.

4. Stinger SSCAP2M

The Stinger SSCAP2M is yet another great capacitor. Its main unique feature is its aluminum brushed casing. The brushed aluminum body is light, yet durable. Moreover, brushed aluminum is more attractive than standard aluminum. In addition, aluminum resists corrosion and is more resilient especially in colder environments.

Features and Benefits of Stinger SSCAP2M

  • Aluminum body- The Stinger SSCAP2M car audio capacitor features a brushed aluminum body. Like previously mentioned, its brushed aluminum body enhances its resilience, strength and durability.
  • Great display- This capacitor also features a three digit digital display. The voltage display enables a user to view the current capacitor charge and its red digits makes it more visible even at night.
  • Reverse polarity alerts- Another most noteworthy feature of this capacitor is its audible reverse polarity alerts. The alerts will notify you whenever there is reverse polarity due to improper wire connections.
  • Charges fast- The capacitor operates on a capacitance value of 2 Farads. Thus, it charges very quickly in readiness to power your car audio amp.
  • Satin terminal finishing- The Stinger SSCAP2M features satin finish terminals. Satin finish is beneficial in that it does not show any flaws on terminals and you will always miss to see any gouges on the terminals.

Pros

  • Very low ESR
  • Terminals with satin finishing
  • Alerts for reserve polarity
  • Very affordable
  • Fast charging

Cons

  • May not power systems exceeding 2000 watts
  • Lacks audible low voltage and overload alerts
  • Lacks surge protection

Our Verdict: In case you’re searching for one of the most inexpensive yet reliable capacitor for a car music system, then you need to check out Stinger SSCAP2M on Amazon. Consider it in your shortlist give your car amp more power.

5. Rockford RFC1

One of the most notable capacitors is the Rockford RFC1. It’s a 1 Farad capacitor with a unique feature of having a platinum plated body. Plating the capacitor body with platinum enhances its hardness. This makes it more durable and less prone to surface damage. For instance, it’s not easy to scratch a platinum plated capacitor.

Features and Benefits of Rockford RFC1

  • Platinum plated- As stated earlier, the Rockford RFC1 capacitor features a platinum plated body. This enhances its overall strength, making it more durable for it resists surface damage.
  • Solid brass top- Its top comprises of solid brass, which is known for its resistance to corrosion and tolerating high temperatures. The solid brass top assists in reducing stripping and also makes it possible for the capacitor to work efficiently despite any rise in temperature due to resistance while powering a car audio amplifier.
  • Low ESR- The capacitor has low equivalent series resistance. The low ESR means that it does not overheat easily regardless of the operational duration.
  • Rapid charging- Rockford RFC1 has a capacitance value of 1 Farads. The low capacitance value makes it possible to get a full charge quite rapidly.
  • Great color finishing- It features a silver primary color and a black secondary color. This make it blend well in almost any interior car finishing.

Pros

  • Low internal resistance
  • Platinum plated
  • Fast charging
  • Solid brass top
  • High voltage peak

Cons

  • Available on the higher price bracket
  • Doesn’t feature LED voltage display
  • Lacks audible alerts

Our Verdict: Rockford RFC1 capacitor is ideal for any car owner who needs a capacitor that can charge quite fast and one that can perform remarkably despite working under high temperatures. Although it’s a bit more expensive, remember quality matters.

6. Soundquest SQCAP2M – Budget Friendly

The Soundquest SQCAP2M is yet another affordable 2 Farads car capacitor. Its key feature is the brushed aluminum body. The finishing is highlyauthentic and decorative for a capacitor of its price range. Brushed aluminum capacitor body makes it weather resistant, thus it is ideal for use in a car environment.

Features and Benefits of  Soundquest SQCAP2M

  • Brushed aluminum- Like already mentioned, this capacitor features a brushed aluminum body. It makes the capacitor more resistant to weather elements and also makes the capacitor look authentic and decorative.
  • Polarity warnings- The capacitor has reverse polarity warnings in form of audible alerts. The warnings alert the user about any reverse polarity such that the problem can be rectified immediately before it damages any components.
  • Satin terminals- In addition, the capacitor has satin finished terminals. Satin finishing makes the terminals resist moisture such that the capacitor can remain functional even in a humid car environment.
  • Voltage display- Moreover, the capacitor features a red, 3 digit display. The display shows the current voltage level of the resistor such that you can easily tell when it’s about to demand charging.
  • Surge protection- It has a surge capability of up to 20 volts DC. This means that this capacitor has surge protection of up to 20 volts DC.

Pros

  • Surge protection
  • Audible reverse polarity alerts
  • Extremely low ESR
  • Very affordable
  • Red three, digit voltage display

Cons

  • Lacks audible low voltage and overload alerts
  • Relatively heavy
  • A little bulky

Our Verdict: Considering its great features, the Soundquest SQCAP2M is a good option at its affordable price tag. Thus, it’s ideal for anyone with a tight budget, yet it offers all you need in a capacitor for your car stereo.

7. Power Acoustik PC1.5F

Power Acoustik PC1.5F boasts of being an average priced 1.5 Farads capacitor. It’s most noteworthy feature is automatic shutoff protection. This enables the capacitor to shut off the charging electric current whenever it’s fully charged. Automatic shutoff protects the capacitor from damage that may result from voltage overload.

Power Acoustik PC1.5F Key Highlights and Benefits

  • Standard range voltage- The capacitor operates within 12 and 16V DC. This makes it operable within the standard car DC voltage.
  • Clear display- Power Acoustik PC1.5F features a red, digital display. The display allows the user to view the current voltage charge in the capacitor without using an eternal meter.
  • Aluminum finishing- It comes with a brushed aluminum finishing. The finishing makes it look decorative while still making it resilient and corrosion resistant.
  • Translucent mounting brackets- The capacitor features translucent mounting brackets. They make it effortless to install the capacitor and their translucent nature makes them less visible once fitted.
  • Easy mounting- It features a single mounting post. The single mounting post makes it quite easy and fast to install the capacitor in your car amp.

Pros

  • Comes with mounting brackets
  • Digital, Led display
  • Easy to mount
  • Affordable
  • Automatic shutoff protection

Cons

  • No audible alerts
  • May not power more powerful amps
  • No in-built distribution block

Our Verdict: The capacitor is worth its middle price range, considering its great features. If your car amp does not demand a lot of power, this capacitor will be good enough and you’ll surely appreciate what it has to offer.

Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Car Audio Capacitor

Capacitors for car audio systems are not designed the same way. Different capacitors have different features. They have different pros and an equal share of cons. Thus, a capacitor that works for one car audio system may not work effectively in another car audio.

Therefore, you’ll want to choose the best capacitor for your car to get the most out of it. But how would you choose the best capacitor for your car audio? Well, there are some consideration you need to think about before making your final decision.

Here are the things to consider before buying the best capacitor for your car audio:

1. Capacitance Value Rating

The capacitance value rating of a capacitor describes the charge that a capacitor can store. Capacitance value is represented in Farads. The higher the capacitance value, the more powerful the capacitor.

Before buying a capacitor for your car audio, consider the power of your car amplifier. If your car amp is rated less than 2000 watts, a capacitor with a capacitance value of 1 to 2 Farads can suffice.

However, if you have a more powerful car amp, then consider a capacitor with a higher capacitance rating for the best performance.

2. Rated Voltage and Surge Voltage of the Capacitor

Different capacitors have different rated voltage. In general, most car batteries and alternators produce a voltage of 12 to 14.8V DC. Thus, you’ll want to consider a capacitor that can handle up to 16V DC rated voltage. The surge voltage should be on the higher side. A surge voltage rating of around 20V DC should suffice to ensure your capacitor does not get damaged in case of sudden voltage surge.

3. Voltage Overload and Low Voltage Protection

Each and every capacitor has a maximum voltage level it can take. Exceeding the maximum voltage may damage the capacitor. Also, low voltage can damage the capacitor. Thus, consider a capacitor with both voltage overload and low voltage protection to increase the chances of using it for more years to come. If you can get a capacitor with automatic shutoff, the better.

4. Ease of Charging and Installation

Another factor to consider is how easy it is to charge the capacitor. You wouldn’t want to invest in a capacitor that takes too long to charge or is complicated to charge.

Also, consider how easy it is to connect the capacitor to your car audio system. It should be effortless to connect or disconnect. Moreover, it should come with mounting hardware, including mounting brackets and screws.

5. Audible Alerts for Unfavorable Conditions

While driving, you might not always check your capacitor for charge level with the aim of driving safely. Thus, you should invest in a capacitor that can give you audible alerts for unfavorable conditions such as low voltage and overvoltage. Also, consider a capacitor with reverse polarity alerts.

6. LED Voltage Display

It’s ideal to invest in a capacitor that has a LED voltage display to easily know the current charge level of the capacitor. A LED voltage display eliminates the need to use voltmeters which only make it more challenging to use a capacitor in your car audio.

7. Durability of the Capacitor

Whenever investing in any product, you’ll always want something that can serve you for many years. The same case applies to buying capacitors. It’s ideal to consider the material and finishing of the capacitor. Choose a capacitor made of a material and finishing that can resist corrosion and weather elements. The end terminals should also be made of a strong material that resists abrasion.

8. Price-Quality Ratio

Well, it’s obvious that your budget determines the type of capacitor you can afford. Some capacitors cost more due to extra features while others are more affordable due to limited capacities. At the same time, it doesn’t mean that affordable capacitors don’t have great features.

However, you will not want to buy a capacitor just because it is cheap. You also need to consider its quality. Thus, you should consider balancing price and quality. Always avoid compromising quality of the capacitor over cost. Hence, consider a capacitor that has the features you need and is within your budget, else stretch your budget a little bit.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the final decision you’ll make when buying the best capacitor for your car audio should mainly depend on the quality, features, and budget. Avoid choosing a capacitor for your car audio just because it looks attractive or it’s extremely affordable. Go for a capacitor that has all the features you want and is within your budget.

Although the capacitors mentioned in this guide have their similarities and differences, including different pros and cons, they have their unique features. Each of these capacitors has an outstanding feature that sets it apart from the other capacitors.

As long as you choose a capacitor that is powerful enough to power your car audio amplifier, you’ll be good to go. You’ll rest assured that your car’s headlights and dashboard lights will never dim whenever playing bass notes in your car audio system.

Hence, with these tips and guide in mind, you will stand better chances of investing in the best car audio capacitor.

JBL GTO939 Review

I had installed a pair of aftermarket speakers in my vehicle quite some time ago, and they had finally given up, and were wore out. I had been very happy with my previous speakers so I was looking for something similar, or better but within a strict budget. A friend told me about the JBL GTO939 speakers that he had recently installed in his vehicle. He said that they were within my budget, but had the specifications of much higher priced speakers. He was very positive about them, and I wanted to find out more. I found out that they are very reasonable in terms of price, and perform as well as speakers two to three times their price point. They have so many positive reviews all across the board on every aspect and feature. I ordered them, and couldn’t wait to install them and try them for myself.

Who are these speakers designed for?

The JBL GTO939 speakers are designed with people in mind who:

  • Want great sound quality
  • Want easy installation
  • Have 6” x 9” speakers
  • Want to replace old and worn out speakers
  • Want an aftermarket speaker upgrade
  • Want a full range speaker
  • Has a budget, but still wants a great sound quality

JBL are an audio company known for producing good quality speakers. The JBL GTO939 are full range speakers that have been developed for crisp, clear sound. JBL GTO939 speakers are 3 way speakers, and have a few appealing features.

Installation

One of the biggest appeals of the JBL GTO939 speakers is how easy they are to install. While some speakers require specialist installation and modification to the vehicle, these do not. They were designed to replace stock OEM 6×9 speakers on almost any make and model of vehicle, and as an upgrade for any aftermarket speaker so you can install them yourself at home. You don’t need any special tools for installation, but if you’re trying to replace a smaller speaker with these, then you will need to modify the space to allow the speaker to fit.

Plus One Cone Technology

The JBL GTO939 speakers have JBL’s own Plus One cone technology. This is a cone that JBL have designed from specialist materials to be larger than average cones. A speaker produces sound by vibrating air, so the larger the cone, the more air it can vibrate. In these speakers, the Plus One cone helps it to produce better bass quality.

Wattage

The JBL GTO939 speakers have peak power handling of 300W per speaker, 600W for the pair. They have RMS power handling of 100W, 200W per pair. The wattage in these speakers mean that you can use them with your stock vehicle audio system and you will notice an improved sound quality. If you upgrade your vehicle audio system to run them through an amplifier then they really come into their own, and produce an incredible sound quality.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity rating is more important than most people realize. The sensitivity rating shows how the speaker will respond to power, so the higher the rating, the better the response. The power needed to deliver the same volume decreases by around half with each 3dB increase. The JBL GTO939 speakers have a sensitivity rating of 94dB. This means that if you have set your volume and you’re sing these speakers, you would use around 50 watts of power. In 91dB speakers you would need to use around 100 watts for the exact same volume level.

Tweeter

The tweeters in the JBL GTO939 is one of the speakers huge advantages over other speakers in the same price range. Actually, they’re one of the components of these speakers that allow them to compete with speakers in a higher price bracket. The one inch tweeters are made from a My/Ti, which is a Mylar and Titanium composite. They are designed to give more power handling, reduce distortion, and be more efficient. The distortion reduction is more evident in the mid range frequencies, which is where most tracks have the vocals. This allows the JBL GTO939 to give you a much crisper, clearer sound than other speakers.

UniPivot

The also have UniPivot. UniPivot is the system JBL designed that allows you to adjust the position of the tweeter so it is towards you. There is after installation customization as there’s also a control switch so you can adjust the tweeter dB output to your own preferences

Click Here To See Specifications, Customer Reviews & Rating

What I Like

  • These speakers have a minimum mounting depth of 2” which means that they are compatible with a very wide range of vehicles
  • They have a frequency response of 45 – 21,000 Hz
  • They produce a well balanced sound
  • They are a reasonably speaker, with the quality of a much higher priced speaker
  • These speakers have gone through a wide range of testing to ensure durability and high quality materials

What I Don’t Like

  • They have no hardware in the box, so may require some additional purchases
  • They work with the stock audio system, but most of their advantages are massively improved by upgrading your audio system
  • There is room for some improvement in the upper mid range, and deeper lows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these speakers fit in my vehicle?

The JBL GTO939 speakers are compatible with a huge range of vehicles. As a general rule, if your vehicle has 6” x 9” speakers, then these ones can replace them. They have a minimum mounting depth of 2” which is quite shallow, and can mean that they can be installed into almost any vehicle without any additional modification.

What comes in the box?

The box includes two 2 way 6 x 9 speakers, 2 bottom mount rings, 2 grilles and grille badges, eight machine screws, eight self tapping screws, eight split lock washers, eight flat washers, eight hex nuts, eight sped clips, warranty and instructions for installations. Everything you could need to install your speakers is in the box

Are they individual or a pair of speakers?

They are sold as a set of two speakers.

What comes in the box?

The box contains two JBL GTO939 3 way speakers.

Is there any hardware?

No, you will need to find the hardware and connectors yourself. Though this does mean that you can make sure that all the connectors are the right size for your vehicle.

Do they have a warranty?

Yes, they come with a one year warranty.

See More Questions and Answers

Read Also: Kenwood KFC-6965S Review

Verdict

The JBL GTO939 3 way speakers are capable of power, performance and quality. They are reasonably priced but with the specifications that you might expect from more expensive speakers. They are easy to install, but don’t come with any additional mounting hardware. This is easily solved by a trip to the hardware store, and it does mean that you can make sure that you have the proper sized connectors for your vehicle. Overall, they are a great speaker that give a much better sound quality than the factory speakers in your car can. Still if you are looking for other speakers you may read New Kicker DS693 Review.

Alpine Spe-6090 Review

I wasn’t particularly happy with the stock speakers that came in my car. The sound quality wasn’t great, and I wanted to overhaul the audio system completely. I was looking around for some good quality speakers, but I was on a budget and I didn’t want to overspend either. I came across these Alpine Spe-6090 speakers, and everything about them appealed to me. I read the reviews and everyone seemed to only have good things to say about them. I had heard of Alpine before, and I knew they had a good reputation for delivering high-quality products. These Alpine Spe-6090 speakers had a few features that I was really excited about, and they met all of my requirements perfectly.

Who are these speakers designed for?

These speakers are perfect for anyone who:

  • Wants to upgrade the factory speakers in their car
  • Want a better sound quality
  • Wants to replace speakers degraded due to age and use
  • Wants a full range speaker
  • Want to DIY install speaker
  • Wants good quality speakers at a reasonable price
  • Isn’t sure if they want to install an amplifier
  • Drives a car with 6×9 speakers

The Alpine Spe-6090 speakers are a reasonably priced Type-R speaker. They have some improvements over the previous ranges. They are a full range speaker, with great performance. Their design has been developed to enhance the sound quality and has taken the acoustics of the enclosed car space into account.

Wattage

The Alpine Spe-6090 coaxial speakers have peak power handling of 300W each and RMS power handling of 100W. As they come as a pair, this means that they have peak power handling of 600W and 200W of RMS power handling. The wattage means that even when the speakers are used in conjunction with the factory audio player in the car, they still produce a very high sound quality. They handle a lot of power, but they’re also very efficient, and can be used with an amplifier, so that you can get even better quality than ever before.

H.A.M.R

These Alpine Spe-6090 speakers have HAMR Surround or High Amplitude Multi Roll Surround. This is a patent pending technology developed by Alpine for many of their subwoofers. In some speakers when you have your volume at a higher level the suspension system becomes unstable, loses control and distorts the sound. This doesn’t happen with the HAMR Surround. It combines a larger cone area with long line excursions, to produce a perfect, deep bass response.

Easy Installation

Full range speakers are typically easier to install than component speakers. They usually can be installed yourself without any difficulty, or the use of long complicated instructions. The Alpine Spe-6090 speakers are even easier to install than other full range speakers. They are constructed from an HD polymer frame, which offers many advantages over traditional steel frames regarding its installation. It’s a revolutionary construct which means that the speakers are lighter, sturdier and stronger than any traditional speaker.

Compatibility

The Alpine Spe-6090 uses a smaller Neodymium Magnet than other traditionally made speakers. This means that the whole speaker is more compact than other speakers. This compactness allows for better performance, more control, higher quality, lighter weight and more compatibility with a much wider range of makes and models of vehicle. They are generally compatible with any vehicle that already has a 6×9 speaker, but you may want to make sure that your particular vehicle make and model is compatible. 

Type R speakers

Alpine are one of the giants in aftermarket car audio system speakers. They have consistently offered high quality, great design and superior technology in all of their speakers, but the Alpine Spe-6090 speakers are type R, which is one of the more recent series lines of the speaker. The type R has taken all of Alpine’s advances in terms of the sound quality produced and taken it to the next level. Alpine’s Type-R speakers combine patent pending technology, with an incredible design, to create one of the most popular, highest-performing full range speakers available, while still maintaining a reasonable and affordable price point.

What I Like

  • They are compatible with the built-in vehicle stereo system
  • These speakers are compatible with an amplifier
  • They have 60Hz – 29kHz Frequency
  • They are capable of sound of 90dB
  • These speakers have a 1” ring radiator tweeter to give high-frequency quality
  • Every component in these speakers are constructed from high-quality materials
  • They have a shallow design, which means that there should be no need to modify the vehicle for installation

What I Don’t Like

  • Will not produce good quality audio if not installed properly
  • Might not have the bass quality of a component speaker
  • Works better with an amplifier
  • Can overpower the other speakers, if they haven’t been upgraded as well

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the measurements of the speaker? 

The dimensions of the Alpine Spe-6090 speakers are 8.7 x 3.5 x 7.1. They weigh around 7 pounds.

What comes in the box?

The box includes two 2 way 6 x 9 speakers, 2 bottom mount rings, 2 grilles and grille badges, eight machine screws, eight self tapping screws, eight split lock washers, eight flat washers, eight hex nuts, eight sped clips, warranty and instructions for installations. Everything you could need to install your speakers is in the box

Do they need an amplifier?

These speakers don’t need an amplifier to work, but they do have more potential and offer a higher sound quality if they are run through an amplifier. But they do still give impressive improvements over the stock speaker when run through the audio system.

Are they priced per pair, or per speaker?

These speakers are priced per pair, and not individually.

Do they come with a warranty?

Yes, they have a one year warrant.

Will they fit my car?

As a general rule, if your car has 6” x 9” speakers, then these Alpine Spe-6090 speakers are probably compatible with it.

Verdict

The Alpine Spe-6090 are powerful, efficient, and give a great sound quality. They are incredibly priced and the price is per pair. They are a full range speaker, that are very easy to install. They can be installed at home, so there’s no need to pay an installation fee at a shop. They have some of the most recent and advanced audio technology. They’re compatible with a wide range of makes and models. I bought these to replace the stock speakers, and I really wasn’t disappointed. They did everything they said they would at the fraction of the price of many other speakers. I would happily recommend them to anyone. If you are still looking for something else please read JBL GTO939 Review.

How to Build a Budget-Friendly Audio System For Your Car

We use our cars to go to work, school or places of leisure. Some of us drive to and from these locations every day. While on the way there, the journey becomes more relaxed if we are listening to some music. This is where a car audio system comes in. Our cars come equipped with a radio receiver and possibly a CD player unit. These stock parts produce good sound but it is often not quite as clear and crisp as we would want. Therefore, many of us turn to aftermarket products and construct our own unique car audio systems. A car audio system consists of many parts. These include the speakers, amplifiers, equalizers, cabling and possibly an extra battery. These parts range in price from affordable ones to wildly expensive units. Read on to find out how to build a budget-friendly audio system for your car.

Determine Your Budget

This is the most important step when you begin the journey of building an affordable audio system for your car. You need to identify how much money you want to spend on it. Start by determining which parts you want for your car audio system. Do you want a head unit which is equipped with only a CD player or one equipped with USB and iPod ports too? Also, do you want Bluetooth technology, bass speakers, DVD screens or a GPS receiver in your car? Find out what you want and perform some research to find out the lowest prices you can get for each part you want. After that, add up the prices and get an estimated total. This is the budget which you will work with going forward.

The Car Stereo

This is the heart of your car audio system. You may decide to change the stock car stereo in your car and replace it with an aftermarket unit that produces better sound. Also known as head units, car stereos are diverse. Some have just a few features while others have it all. Refer to the features which you decided to search for as you were making your budget. After that, find a car stereo which has these features and is affordable. Once you do, purchase it and move on to the next part.

The Speakers

These are the sound output units in your car stereo. There are very many models of car speakers in the market. Examples of some reliable brands are JBLPioneerPolk Audio and ​Kenwood​. There are two main types of car speakers. One of the types available is coaxial speakers. These are also known as full range speakers and they contain the tweeter on the woofer. The other type is component speakers. The tweeter and woofer in these ones are separate. Car audio speakers come in different sizes. These are the 6×5 and 6×9 sizes. The 6×5 speakers are normally installed in the front car doors. On the other hand, the 6×9 car speakers are normally installed in the rear deck of the car. As you pick some speakers for your car audio system, remember to refer to the budget which you drew up. It will help you to pick speakers which are affordable yet give you clear, deep and sharp sound even at high volumes. Car audio speakers normally have some characteristics which you should consider as you search for them. These are the sensitivity, range of frequency, impedance, construction material and power handling ability

Pick an Amplifier

An aftermarket car stereo is not powerful enough to power your car audio system. Thus, you need a unit that can boost the signal from the car stereo to the speakers. This unit is known as an external amplifier. There are two types of amplifiers. These are the mono channel and the multiple channel amplifiers. A mono channel amplifier can only send signal to one speaker. On the other hand, a multiple channel amplifier can send sound signal to many speakers. There are multiple channel amplifiers which can handle up to 6 speakers. It is advisble to buy a multiple channel amplifier. This is because you can always connect new car audio equipment to it in future. Perform some research so as to find an amplifier unit which can power your front and rear speakers. Remember to check the power rating of your amplifier. You do not want to send more power than your speakers can handle. This can damage them.

Add a Subwoofer

A subwoofer is a special type of speaker which is designed to deliver poweful bass. You car audio system is not complete without a subwoofer or two in the mix. Picking a multiple channel amplifier helps you to direct signal to your new subwoofer easily. For example, if you chose a 5 channel amplifier, you can use 4 channels to deliver signal to your speakers and the fifth channel to deliver sound signal to your subwoofer. There are many sizes of subwoofers. Examples of these are the 8 and the 10 inch subwoofers. Car audio amplifiers normally have some special characteristics which you should know about. Examples of these are their power handling capability or RMS, load of impedance, range of frequency, sensitivity and overall size. There are very many brands of subwoofers today. Sift through them to find a good unit that is affordable and can deliver the bass you desire.

Conclusion

Once you buy these individual parts of your car audio system, you are halfway there. Now you need to install them in your car.You can hire a professional car audio specialist to perform this for you. At a fee, they can swiftly prepare, install and test your car audio system. On the other hand, if you want to save some money, you can install them yourself. If you have a background in electrical engineering, then this process will be a breeze. However, if you don’t, find an instruction manual to assist you in the process of installation. There are such manuals in electronics shops and on the Internet. If you decide to go down this path, observe safety first. Wear protective gloves, a visor and be aware of the electrical power as you install your car audio system. If you are successful, you can go ahead and enjoy your favorite tunes through your affordable car audio system as you cruise down the highway.

Everything You Need to Know About Upgrading Your Car Stereo

Music is good for the soul. We desire to listen to our favorite songs all the time. We enjoy listening to them in our cars as we drive to and from work. Your favorite song can really improve your mood and help you face the day with a smile on your face. To enjoy your favorite music, it is best to use a car stereo that gives you pristine clarity and lets you enjoy every note. The car stereo system that your car comes with from the factory may be good but not as clear as you would want it to be. This is because most car manufacturers use low quality materials and bad design for their car stereos and speaker systems. Thankfully, there is a huge variety of aftermarket equipment which you can use to upgrade your car stereo. Read on to find out everything you need to know about upgrading your car stereo.

Perform a Self-assessment

Before you begin buying and installing new pieces of audio equipment in your car, you should first of all determine a couple of factors. Firstly, what sort of budget do you have? Are you looking to upgrade your car audio system on a shoestring budget or are you willing to spend a lot of money on it? Secondly, are you looking to replace every single piece of car audio equipment in your car or just a few? Asking yourself these two questions can help you to find out how much money you intend to spend on upgrading your car audio system.

Once you have a budget, it is time to figure out the specifications of the items which you want to get. If you plan on replacing the head unit, which features do you want your new one to have? Are you interested in a unit which only has a CD player or one that can even play music from your iPod? Perform some research to find out the capabilities of modern head units. After that, pick out the features you want and then pursue the models which have them. This process is the same for picking out all the other audio components which you plan on installing in your car.

Get a New Head Unit

Also known as the car stereo, this is the most important part of your car’s audio system. It is the unit which sends the sound signals to the speakers and other elements of your car audio system. Today, there are head units which can perform a variety of functions. Some of them are capable of using Bluetooth technology, providing GPS navigation and playing music from your secondary devices such as your iPod, flash drive or micro SD card. Depending on the features which you want and your budget, you can research and find a head unit which fits your requirements. You can then install it to replace your old one.

Get Some New Speakers

These are the main sound output channels of your car’s audio system. They are definitely an audio part which you should upgrade if you want to enjoy crisp, clear sound. There are many car speaker manufacturers in the market. Examples of these are Kenwood, JBL, Rockford, Pioneer and Polk Audio. There are also various sizes and types of speakers. Examples of these are 6.56 x 8 and 6 x 9 speakers. In addition to that, there are two categories of car speakers. These are the full-range and component speakers. Also known as coaxial speakers, the full-range type has the tweeter on the woofer. On the other hand, component car speakers have these elements separately. An important point to remember is that your car speakers must match the OEM hole of your car. This is very important so as to ensure smooth installation. If you are not sure about the OEM hole size of your car, simply head to the Metra website and perform a quick search. Enter your car model and the online system will present you with the size of its OEM hole.

Amplify your sound

Most stock and aftermarket car stereos cannot provide sufficient power to your car speakers on their own. Thus, you need to install an amplifier to boost the sound signal from the car stereo to the speakers. A good amplifier will enhance and boost the sound signals from the head unit and direct them to your speaker enabling you to hear every crisp note in your music. There are two types of amplifiers. They include the mono channel and the multiple channel amplifiers. A mono channel amplifier can only boost the signal for one speaker while a multi-channel amplifier can boost the signal for up to 6 speakers. It is advisable to buy a multiple channel amplifier so as to give you the flexibility to expand your car audio system in future. There is a huge variety of amplifiers in the market for you. They are of various models and power ratings. As you pick an amplifier, make sure that you pick one which fits comfortably in your budget. Moreover, remember to check the RMS rating of your speakers. Your amplifier’s power should match the RMS rating on your car speakers. This is so as to avoid overpowering and destroying them.

Get That Bass in Your Music

The bass thump in your music normally has a low frequency. A special type of speaker is required to play this low frequency sound in a clear and crisp way. This speaker is known as a subwoofer. There are three main sizes of subwoofers. They include the 8 inch, 10 inch and 12 inch subwoofers. As you begin the journey of upgrading your car stereo, you can do quite well with two 8 inch or one 12 inch subwoofer. Do some research so that you can pick a unit that fits in your budget. It is important to note that you should provide your subwoofer with amplified sound. This means that one or two of the channels on your amplifier should be dedicated to your subwoofers. This is how to deliver crisp, powerful sound to them and hear the deep bass in your music.

Read Also: Alpine Spe-6090 Review

Conclusion

Once you buy all these items, it is time to install them in your car. If you plan to do it yourself, ensure that you perform all the safety procedures first. Wear some goggles to protect your eyes and gloves to keep your hands safe and insulated. Moreover, be aware of the electrical power around you. On the other hand, if you plan to have a professional car audio specialist do it for you, make sure that they are insured so as to receive compensation in case your equipment gets damaged during the process. After the new car audio system is installed, feel free to enjoy your music and hear it as never before.

Kenwood KFC-6965S Review

Music is a massive part of most people’s lives. It is a way to express yourself and has been linked to many health benefits, including improved mood and decreased depression. In addition, because of the rise of modern technology, there has never been more ways to listen to it – such as on personal music players, via the computer and Bluetooth devices, and in the car. When listening in the latter, it is possible to have equipment that will really get the best out of your music so that you can enjoy it to the highest level of quality. Below we are going to look at a set of speakers you can fit into your existing vehicle to really boost those tunes.

Why should I be interested?

The Kenwood KFC-6965S 6″ x 9″ 3-Way Flush Mount Speakers come from speaker aficionados Kenwood, a company that has been in operation since 1947. You know that you can buy with confidence, as unlike many other companies Kenwood have been in the speaker game for a long time. Kenwood’s KFC-6965S speakers take advantage of the company’s technical knowledge and advanced material usage to give your music that sumptuous high-quality, rich sound it deserves.

What is the sound output and what are the special features?

Designed for those who want to get really powerful bass and high-quality treble from their in-car entertainment, the KFC-6965S has a fantastic 600 watts of maximum power output, which equates to a punchy 89 dB/w at the 1m sensitivity range. In addition, there is a frequency range response all the way from 60Hz up to 2500, so you know that all levels of your music are going to be outputted at the highest level.

What is the design?

Made to fit in place of your existing 6” x 9” speakers, the Kenwoods are flush mounting speakers with a 3-way design that contains a brand new polypropylene hybrid cone with a rubber butyl surround (which lowers the change of wearing and keeps the music playing no matter what the conditions), a diamond array pattern (which means that you get more dynamic response with a far lower level of distortion), along with a ferrite magnet. Coming in a sleek and sexy black colour, the Kenwood speakers also have a silver finish around the treble output, to really enhance the look, as well as a hard black steel basket surround that really looks the part (and prevents the speaker from getting unnecessary damage.

It is important to note that as the Kenwood speakers are designed to specifically fit in a surrounding encasing, that you need to ensure that the space in your vehicle is the same size, to avoid them not fitting correctly. It is best to go to a vehicle shop that can remove your old ones and check the specifications there. If the speakers came as factory standard with your car then you can check your owner’s manual for more details on the size and shape of fitting.

What are the size specifications?

The speakers themselves are 153mm by 229mm, with the Mid-Range section being 1 inch (25mm) with a soft Dome Diaphragm to really push out the sound, as well as a 3/4 inch (19mm) P.E.I Balanced Dome Design.

Click Here To See Specifications, Customer Reviews & Rating

What comes inside the box?

Below is a full list of everything that you will find when you open the box for the The Kenwood KFC-6965S 6″ x 9″ speakers:

  • The speakers themselves
  • 2 Grilles
  • ​2 Grille frames
  • ​Two 11″ lengths of speaker wire.
  • ​8 x 1-1/2″ Self-tapping screws
  • 8 x M4x70mm machine screws
  • 8 Large flat washers
  • 8 Small flat washers
  • 8 Split lock washers
  • 8 xM4 Hex nuts
  • 2 x 4″ Strips of speaker grille putty
  • Warranty information
  • Template and specifications on box for fitting etc.

What are other people saying about the speakers?

Unsurprisingly the Kenwood KFC-6965S speakers have proven themselves to be quite popular among the general public.

Some of the positive review highlights include:

  • Fantastic packaging that kept the speakers protected whilst still sealed and helps to prevent any damage before opening.
  • A fantastic level of sound output with high-quality production at all frequencies, even when pushed to their uppermost limits.
  • Quite easy to fit yourself with even only a basic level of DIY skills at your disposal. Instructions quite clear for how to fit to give that added piece of mind.

Some of the more negative reviews (of which there aren’t very many) did highlight a few potential concerns:

  • Kenwood only provide double-sided sticky tape to hold the speakers in place, and some reviewers were concerned that with constant use and extensive vibration (especially if played at louder levels) this could eventually peel off, causing the speakers to fall out. No one had mentioned this actually happening, however so it seems that it is more something to look out for in the future. In addition, adding extra tape yourself could be another way to help combat this potential issue.
  • The fitting of the speaker frame grill is somewhat cumbersome according to some, due to you needing to cut putty into shape yourself and fit it around the rim of the speaker, before putting the grill in place. This was highlighted a couple of times, yet all eventually managed it, so it doesn’t appear to be too much of an overall issue.

What can we conclude?

It seems that The KFC-6965S 6″ x 9″ 3-Way Flush Mount Speakers are a fantastic high-quality set of speakers for the front of your car, that will give you a great return for your relatively small investment. You can buy with the confidence that you always get buying a Kenwood music product, and install them with relative ease, although there might be some minor niggles with setting the cage in place. If you are looking for some good quality music output on the go, then you can’t really go wrong with the Kenwood KFC-6965S. Reading Rockford R169X2 Review can also help you choosing your desired one.

Polk Audio DB691 Review

Are you on the lookout for the best 6×9 car speakers? You need to look no more than the Polk Audio’s DB691. Boost your vehicle’s audio performance with these versatile and efficient speakers from a revolutionary manufacturer. Polk Audio are known for their cutting-edge speaker designing with modern technologies. All Polk speakers are designed with the best materials that enables them to produce a perfect music quality that you’ve never heard before. The company use the most advanced manufacturing techniques such as laser imaging that enables them to determine the most appropriate designs and materials best suited for modern speaker.

DB691 is a pair of 6×9-inch 3-way component coaxial speakers that provides an awesome sound performance. Three-way speakers are so far the best for those who prefers loud music. Although 2-way speakers are loud too, they don’t give the higher frequencies like those produced by likes of DB691 three-way audio speakers.

Product Specifications

  • 6″ x 9″ 3-way Speakers
  • ​Frequency Response: 35-22,000 Hz
  • ​Peak: 600 watts per pair / 300 watts each
  • ​RMS: 200 watts per pair / 100 watts each
  • ​Maximum input power: 125 Watts RMS
  • ​Impedance: 4 Ohms
  • Sensitivity- 93 dB efficiency

Who are these speakers designed for?

  • Car Owners
  • Boat riders
  • Motorcycle riders
  • Gamers
  • Outdoor Entertainers

Features of the Polk Audio DB691

Dome Super–tweeter and Mica Cone Woofer

The built-in 2-way speakers balances the low and high frequencies for perfect flow of frequencies to the proper drivers, hence efficient audio. A perfect balance of equipment like the Mica cone woofer and silk polymer dome tweeter allows for a smooth response to any volume level.

The speaker produces quality sound, thanks to the silk dome tweeters that produces very clear sound. Even if you increase the system volume, the tweeters maintains a pleasantly rich sound that is warm to your eyes even. It features Neodymium tweeter magnet with 1-inch liquid cooler polymer composite dome. There is a plentiful bass as well as mid-range. The three and a quarter-inch super tweeters enhances the sparkle for producing natural music intricacies

Mica Composite Woofer with Durable Butyl Rubber Surround

The speakers come equipped with polymer composite cone adopting a rubber surrounding. The durable butyl rubber is capable of standing all the stress of extreme temperatures like harsh sunlight. The dynamic mica/polymer composite is perfectly stiff though lightweight to allow for bigger sound and less distortion. The rubber surrounding boost the speaker’s bass response and also increases the speaker’s lifetime under any conditions. Enjoy intense sonic harmony for longer hours with Polk Audio DB691 speakers. The overall tonal balance is perfect with the perfect presentation of the lows, mid and highs

Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware

Polk Audio DB691 speakers features stainless steel mounting and rustproof baskets, making them suitable for marine use. Being marine certified, offers a great deal of versatility and the therefore can be used for multiple applications. The stainless steel design allows them to be used in both outdoor and indoor environments without getting rust. One feature that you’ll probably want to hear about any sound product is waterproof. Yes, Pol Audio DB169 are water proof and you need not worry if they are rained on or splashed on by water. However, you should not submerge them into water as this will result into technical damage.

ABS Grilles

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a kind of thermoplastic polymer that is best suited for marine and other industrial applications. The muscular ABS grilles adds a stylish design for those who want to customize their car audio system. The sound system you install for your motor determines the interior decoration. ABS grilles are known for its unmatched beauty and that’s why Polk audio engineer stooped for nothing less than this designing. The aesthetic decoration of this speakers complements the quality sound they produce, which is far much better compared to the sound produced by metal tweeters made from titanium or aluminum


Table of Contents [show]

Polk Audio DB691 Review

Features

Installation

Sound Quality

Price

Are you on the lookout for the best 6×9 car speakers? You need to look no more than the Polk Audio’s DB691. Boost your vehicle’s audio performance with these versatile and efficient speakers from a revolutionary manufacturer. Polk Audio are known for their cutting-edge speaker designing with modern technologies. All Polk speakers are designed with the best materials that enables them to produce a perfect music quality that you’ve never heard before. The company use the most advanced manufacturing techniques such as laser imaging that enables them to determine the most appropriate designs and materials best suited for modern speaker.

DB691 is a pair of 6×9-inch 3-way component coaxial speakers that provides an awesome sound performance. Three-way speakers are so far the best for those who prefers loud music. Although 2-way speakers are loud too, they don’t give the higher frequencies like those produced by likes of DB691 three-way audio speakers.

Product Specifications

  • 6″ x 9″ 3-way Speakers
  • ​Frequency Response: 35-22,000 Hz
  • ​Peak: 600 watts per pair / 300 watts each
  • ​RMS: 200 watts per pair / 100 watts each
  • ​Maximum input power: 125 Watts RMS
  • ​Impedance: 4 Ohms
  • Sensitivity- 93 dB efficiency

Who are these speakers designed for?

  • Car Owners
  • Boat riders
  • Motorcycle riders
  • Gamers
  • Outdoor Entertainers

Features of the Polk Audio DB691

Dome Super–tweeter and Mica Cone Woofer

The built-in 2-way speakers balances the low and high frequencies for perfect flow of frequencies to the proper drivers, hence efficient audio. A perfect balance of equipment like the Mica cone woofer and silk polymer dome tweeter allows for a smooth response to any volume level.

The speaker produces quality sound, thanks to the silk dome tweeters that produces very clear sound. Even if you increase the system volume, the tweeters maintains a pleasantly rich sound that is warm to your eyes even. It features Neodymium tweeter magnet with 1-inch liquid cooler polymer composite dome. There is a plentiful bass as well as mid-range. The three and a quarter-inch super tweeters enhances the sparkle for producing natural music intricacies

Mica Composite Woofer with Durable Butyl Rubber Surround

The speakers come equipped with polymer composite cone adopting a rubber surrounding. The durable butyl rubber is capable of standing all the stress of extreme temperatures like harsh sunlight. The dynamic mica/polymer composite is perfectly stiff though lightweight to allow for bigger sound and less distortion. The rubber surrounding boost the speaker’s bass response and also increases the speaker’s lifetime under any conditions. Enjoy intense sonic harmony for longer hours with Polk Audio DB691 speakers. The overall tonal balance is perfect with the perfect presentation of the lows, mid and highs

Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware

Polk Audio DB691 speakers features stainless steel mounting and rustproof baskets, making them suitable for marine use. Being marine certified, offers a great deal of versatility and the therefore can be used for multiple applications. The stainless steel design allows them to be used in both outdoor and indoor environments without getting rust. One feature that you’ll probably want to hear about any sound product is waterproof. Yes, Pol Audio DB169 are water proof and you need not worry if they are rained on or splashed on by water. However, you should not submerge them into water as this will result into technical damage.

ABS Grilles

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a kind of thermoplastic polymer that is best suited for marine and other industrial applications. The muscular ABS grilles adds a stylish design for those who want to customize their car audio system. The sound system you install for your motor determines the interior decoration. ABS grilles are known for its unmatched beauty and that’s why Polk audio engineer stooped for nothing less than this designing. The aesthetic decoration of this speakers complements the quality sound they produce, which is far much better compared to the sound produced by metal tweeters made from titanium or aluminum

Multi-hole Speaker Mounting Pattern

This feature allows for easy installation of speakers in most cars and even motorcycles. Multi-hole mounting pattern allows you to come up with multiple ways on how you can mount and install the Polk Audio DB169 speakers on your car, boat, motorcycle. Use the speaker, for right, left or center channel applications and discover the full-spectrum performance featuring a professional impact. The speakers are designed for car sound system installation though they can be used for multiple applications. Install the speakers in a sealed box for the best opportunity for bass production.

Click Here To See Specifications, Customer Reviews & Rating

Pros

  • Marine certified and are waterproof
  • Quality and clear music sound production
  • ABS grille adds an aesthetic design to your car’s interior
  • Durable design featuring butyl rubber surround and stainless steel mounting
  • Multiple hole speaker mounting for easy installation

Cons

  • The speakers lack slightly in the base department

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the speakers marine certified?

Yes, the Polk’s DB691 meets marine certification standards. They are marine certified and offers a great deal of versatility. The stainless steel design gives them the ability to be used in a wide range of applications. You can install them to your boat sound system.

Are they sold in pair or priced individually?

DB691 Polk speakers are sold in pairs but priced individually.

Can they get wet?

These speakers are waterproof. However, submerging them in water can cause technical damage. Speakers features multiple wiring components that are not-moisture friendly. The rubber designing o these speakers makes them only waterproof to slight amount of water.

See More Questions and Answers

Verdict

Overall, the DB691 three-way speakers system are perfect versatile sound system accessories. The high performance coaxial loudspeaker comes with the latest Polk technology, making them a great choice for any car. If you’re looking for ultimate speakers to revitalize your music, then all you need are these great car sound speakers. Upgrade your car’s sound system today with DB691 6×9 speakers. It doesn’t only offer clear sound but also provides better flexibility when it comes to wiring your sound system.

Rockford Fosgate P1694 Review

There are endless choices when it comes to car speakers. It is wise to compare different products before making your final decision. There are various factors to examine when searching for speakers to install in your newly acquired car. Some of the things to look for in car speakers include configuration, size, quality of sound and price among others.

Rockford Fosgate Punch P1694 is among the best speakers on the market. The speakers boast of a sleek design, small size and affordable price. The flat black design is another aspect that has made this product more popular. Each of the speakers comes with four drivers and offers a frequency range of 60Hz-24 kHz. To find out more about these speakers, read on.

Whom is this product designed for?

  • Music lovers
  • Private car owners
  • Public service vehicle operators

Features of the Rockford Fosgate Punch P1694

FlexFit Basket Design

When looking for speakers for your car you need to find those that will fit perfectly. The flex fit basket of these speakers makes them to fit into your car. This makes it easy to adjust your speakers upon mounting them. The concealed crossover of the speakers has been made such that it allows for easy transfer of frequency to the right components of the speaker while at the same time maintaining the compact design of the unit. Anyone who has been looking for speakers with compact look and fit in their cars properly can bank on these speakers. The basket design is probably among the reasons that have made these speakers one of a kind.

Butyl Rubber Surround

The speaker delivers high sound quality, thanks to the Butyl rubber surround. In addition, the rubber surround makes the speaker durable. This means that you will not dig into your pocket a few weeks down the line in order to buy new speakers. In simple terms, these speakers will last for years. You should also know that the quality of sound produced by the speakers does not deteriorate with time like other low-quality products you are likely to find at the local market.

Tweeter Mounting

Most buyers tend to ask themselves how they are going to mount their speakers in their car. Mounting these speakers in your car is not something to give you sleepless nights. The tweet mounting aspect of these speakers offers concentric clamping pressure around their mounting region. This implies that mounting the speakers in your car is going to be as easy as taking an evening walk at the park with your spouse or friends over the weekend.

Sensitivity and Power Handling Systems

The Rockford punch speakers are a true definition of the major qualities that buyers look for when buying car speakers. The sensitivity and power handling systems of the speakers sets them above other cheap products that you will be tempted to go for when in need. The system boasts of premium drop speaker that is seen in some of the top units you can find at the local market. It does not make sense to break into the nearest bank in order to get cash to buy expensive car speakers when these are being sold at an affordable price. To add a punch in your recently acquired car, simply grab these speakers and you will see the difference at the end of the day

Peak Power Handling

Rockford punch speakers will not disappoint you as far as power handling is concerned. The manufacturer has designed them such that they can support up 150 watts. This power handling capability makes them better than other products. Individuals who want to enjoy quality music from the comfort of their cars can bet on these speakers to deliver the same. At 150 Watts, these speakers definitely belong to some of the leading products for both average and high-income earners. You can compare them with other products at the local or online stores to understand what it means to buy speakers with such as power handling capability.

Dimensions

Dimensionally, the speakers are 6 x9 inches. This means that they will fit into your car with ease. You do not need to bother about where to place the speakers once you have acquired them from the online store or local market. It is wise to go for speakers that come with a warranty.

One Year Warranty

The Rockford speakers are sold with a one year warranty. This implies that you will have the peace of mind you need when using the speakers because you have assurance that they will serve you for several years before you think about buying others.

Pros

  • They boast of Superior sound quality
  • They provide consistent listening
  • The speakers are Easy to install for both experience and first-time users
  • They offer impressive frequency range
  • They are a perfect option if you have limited space in your car
  • The speakers are sold at Affordable pricing
  • Rockford speakers are highly functional and concealed crossover function

Cons

  • They have narrow frequency response band
  • They do not have impressive power handling
  • They not very attractive

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the speakers produce quality sound?

The sound quality of these speakers is great. In fact, the speakers are second to none in terms of sound quality. To enjoy high quality sound, ensure that you are using both speakers.

What is the role of OEM adapter plate feature?

A great percentage of new models of speakers feature an adapter where you mount the speaker on and then the adapter is mounted on the door of the vehicle. This feature allows you to mount your speakers directly to the door of your car without going through much hassle over the same.

Verdict

In conclusion, Rockford speakers are simply the best. These speakers offer high quality sound. In addition, they are easy to install for both novices and experienced persons. Unlike other speakers that take much space, this product is small in size. The basket design makes it easy to fit them in your car after buying them. The sound quality, price, durability and design make these speakers worth your money. To purchase this product at an affordable price, you can check with online stores for better deals. If you have any question regarding automotive audio systems please read our Ultimate Car Speakers FAQs.

Pioneer TS-A6996S Review

Some time back, late last year, I saw a video on YouTube of Trey Songz on his visit to Kenya to participate in Coke Studio. This is a show sponsored by the Coca-Cola Company aimed at enhancing local musical talent in Africa. So on his way to the studio, he was carried by a “matatu” a kind of van in Kenya which is very famous for its exquisite graffiti art and loud music. This story really caught my eyes as I was traveling to the same country after two days and was excited to try and work out this local and most seemingly thrilling means of transport. So on reaching Kenya, I took a cab to the central business district and got a matatu which was headed the route as I was with some assistance from a friend. That matatu had the Pioneer TS-A6996S speakers and it was just awesome. I could tell because my colleague at work recently goes the same for his car.

Pioneer Electronics is renowned worldwide in creating a high-quality state of the art music equipment. The TS-A6996S is one of their many engineering masterpieces as far as sound quality output is concerned. 

The Pioneer TS-A6996S audio speakers are made to target a vast array of end consumers such as:

  • Owners of personal vehicles
  • Public transport means such as the matatus of Kenya
  • Cabs
  • Aircraft
  • Sea vessels

Features of the Pioneer TS-A6996S

The Pioneer TS-A6996S audio speakers come in a pair, both speakers are set to please you with it’s amazing sound . These speakers has 650-watt which helps to produce louder sound. Combined these two produce a crisp clear and precise sound output although I would have preferred if the smaller speaker has more bass. The two speakers, when combined, do not also give quite a responsive stereo surround output as they should. Pioneer electronics should offer this product in two pairs if all they want positive feedback from the end consumer.

Size

The compact size of the two speakers is one of their most striking features. This allows them to be easily installed in all the above mentioned manned vehicles and not occupy a lot of space. The fact that they are normally small has not rendered them weak in terms of power output. As compared to other high-end brands, Pioneer Electronics has still managed to create an audible and well-developed product.

I still believe that the manufacturers of this product have the technological know how to increase the power output of these particular speakers and even reduce their size. Who knows, maybe after this is implemented the target market might grow. After all, who wouldn’t want more space in their car? As far as this is concern.

Design

The Pioneer TS-A6996S audio speakers are designed to be sleek yet tough, small yet powerful, sophisticated yet easy to install. Their distinctive black color and almost oval design give them an edgy look which is both admirable and appealing to the eye. I, however, think that Pioneer Electronics can make it a bit more stylish and make consideration for the female gender bearing in mind that a substantial number of women all over the world are becoming car owners.

Pioneer electronics should therefore acknowledge this development and carry out market research pertaining what women want to have in their automobiles as far as sound is concerned.

The Price

Considering the high-end reputation of the manufacturing company, the price of the speakers might be considered as many to be fair. I mean who wouldn’t buy Pioneer dual speakers for reasonable price. The problem is not the company, though. Pioneer Electronics has to understand that its competitors are quickly coming up with products of the same quality and selling them at a much lower price.

While Pioneer is also selling its famous brand name, these other competitors are out to look for customers who think that Pioneer products aren’t worth their prices and in turn, these companies are in a continuous state of growth. The Pioneer TS-A6996S audio speakers are worth their price but many people, especially in third world countries, would not buy them while other products from different brands have the same quality of sound output and hardware but go for lower prices.

Click Here To See Specifications, Customer Reviews & Rating

Pros

  • Light
  • Easily fits into most speaker housings
  • Wide output range
  • Stocked by most audio equipment retailer
  • Backing of pioneer customer support and years of experience
  • They are compatible with most audio system allow for easy low-cost installation
  • They do not interfere with another gadget 
  • Low impendence and high output for a speaker in its category

Cons

  • The system requires a cabinet for optimal performance
  • Getting the best speaker cabinet for optimal output may prove challenging
  • One need to contact cabinet builders to prepare suitable cabinets for use with the system
  • One will have to buy them separately resulting in additional costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to install an amplifier on my current system to use these speakers?

It will depend on the output of your music system. Most modern systems have a high output and can work well with the Pioneer TS-A6995R. If one is looking for more punch and umps, it is best to have amplifiers. An amplifier will help push the speakers to their limit but be carefully not to exceed their output limit.

Do I need to additionally have a subwoofer when using these speakers?

For deep rich sound, one will still need to have a subwoofer in their speaker arrangement.

See More Questions and Answers

Verdict

If it is the quality you need then the Pioneer TS-A6996S is the best speaker for your needs. It can easily and neatly fit into your vehicle and easily link with your existing sound system. Its sound is amazing for a speaker in its category and one can easily forget that its output is 650 Watts on the list.

You may also Read: Rockford Fosgate P1694 Review

It also provided the best value for money for speakers in its category. Pioneer never disappoint and this time with the Pioneer TS-A6996S they have lived up to their reputation. Pioneer deliver consistency when it comes to audio products and the Pioneer TS-A6996S will bring life to your music collection.

New Kicker DS693 Review

January 19, 2017 by As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

I had recently bought a new car, and I was really excited to get driving in it. Everything about it was great but the speakers weren’t as good as I’d hoped. I thought about getting some aftermarket speakers installed and decided to do some research before choosing the ones I wanted. I didn’t want to need someone to install them for me, I wanted ones that were easy to install myself. I also didn’t want to have to spend a huge amount of money, but I still wanted good quality sound. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to overhaul the whole system so I wanted speakers that would work with both the in car factory system, or a new one. I also knew I wanted one from a reputable brand. I found the new Kicker DS693 speakers and they were everything I wanted. They had great reviews and at a price that wouldn’t break the bank, I was thrilled.

    Who are these speakers designed for?

    Kicker designed these speakers for anyone who:

    • Has a very strict budget
    • Wants better sound quality than stock speakers
    • Wants to replace old speakers
    • Has 6” x 9” speakers
    • Wants to be able to self install

    Kicker have been designing, developing, and manufacturing speakers since the 70s, and the years of experience they have is evident in the range of speakers they have available. Their slogan is “Livin’ Loud’’, and all of their speaker live up to it. The DS693 speakers are considered to be low end speaker, but Kicker have put their experience in sound technology and design into even their lower priced products. This means that these speakers are capable of incredible sound improvements over stock factory speakers, both with the stock audio system, or with an aftermarket system, while remaining one of the most affordable speakers on the market.

    Wattage

    The new Kicker DS693 speakers have 280 watts of peak power per speaker, so 560 watts per pair. They have 140 watts of RMS power per speaker, so 280 watts for the pair. This is at the lower end of wattage, but it is quite impressive for the price range that these speakers fall into. It does mean that if you want to use an amplifier then you need to be careful to make sure that the amp is compatible, and not too powerful for the speakers.

    Installation

    New Kicker develop speakers to be very easy to self install, so as long as the speaker hole is 6”x 9” then the DS693 speakers will drop in, for one of the easiest installation processes of any speaker. They come with all the hardware you will need to wire them and secure them in place.

    The whole process is quick and simple to complete. You don’t need any specialist tools, and you can install the speakers yourself.

    Compatibility

    New Kicker DS693 speakers are compatible with a wide range of make and model of vehicle. They will fit most 6” x 9” speaker ports. They have a mounting depth 3 and 1/4 inches. As long as your vehicle has enough port space to accommodate the depth and size, then they will be compatible.

    Sensitivity

    The sensitivity rating is what will tell you how the speaker will respond to power. The higher the sensitivity rating, the less power that the speaker needs to maintain the same volume level. These Kicker DS693 speakers have 92dB.

    Construction

    The new Kicker DS693 speakers might be consider to be a budget speaker, but this doesn’t show in their construction and design. All the components are well made, sturdy and durable. They have a polypropylene woofer cone which vibrates the air, 2” polypropylene dome mid range for mid range frequencies, and a 1/2” PEI (polyether imide) dome tweeter for high range frequencies. They also incorporate Kicker’s Extended Voice Coil, or EVC technology. This means that Kicker designed the components to produce decent bass, and good overall sound quality.

    Click Here To See Specifications, Customer Reviews & Rating

    Pros

    • They have a good sound quality
    • They have a frequency response of 30 – 20,000 Hz
    • They have an impedance rating of 4 ohms
    • They use a Neodymium magnet
    • They are very durable, as long as they have been broken in correctly then they will last for years.

    Cons

    • They’re a little bulkier than other speakers
    • You need to follow the manufacturers instructions exactly
    • They work better with a custom built speaker box
    • There is room for improvement

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What comes in the box?

    These speakers come as a pair and all the hardware is included. The box has two Kicker DS693 6” x 9” 3 way speakers, 2 speaker grilles, 2 12” lengths of speaker wire, 4 red butt connectors, 8 1” self tapping screws, 8 speed clips and an owners manual.

    Will they fit my vehicle?

    If your speaker ports are 6” x 9” and can accommodate a 3” depth, then they will fit your vehicle. If you don’t have the correct speaker size speaker ports then you will need to modify your vehicle for installation

    What is the bass quality?

    These speakers don’t need an amplifier to work, but they do have more potential and offer a higher sound quality if they are run through an amplifier. But they do still give impressive improvements over the stock speaker when run through the audio system.

    Do they have a warranty?

    Yes, they have a one year manufacturers warranty.

    Are the Kicker DS693 speakers Marine grade?

    They aren’t part of Kicker’s marine grade line of speakers.

    See More Questions and Answers

    Also Read: Pioneer TS-A6996R Review

    Verdict

    The new Kicker DS693 speakers are highly recommended. They are in the low end price bracket, but they perform like speakers that cost much more. They are made from high quality, extremely durable materials, and are designed to give much better sound quality than your factory speakers. They work well with the factory audio system, but they do so much better with a compatible amplifier. They’re easy to install, and don’t need any extra tools. They have been known to blow if they aren’t allowed to break in. To break in your speakers, set them up, and for the first 30 – 40 hours play them at a reasonable volume. Then they will continue to break in for the next hundred hours. You can get playlists that are specifically designed for breaking in speakers, but almost any music will be suitable. If they are properly broken in, then there shouldn’t be any problems with them. Overall, they’re incredible speakers for someone with a very tight budget.